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An American National Standard

Designation: E23 12c

Standard Test Methods for


Notched Bar Impact Testing of Metallic Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E23; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon () indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
1.1 These test methods describe notched-bar impact testing ASTM Test Methods
of metallic materials by the Charpy (simple-beam) test and the E604 Test Method for Dynamic Tear Testing of Metallic
Izod (cantilever-beam) test. They give the requirements for: Materials
test specimens, test procedures, test reports, test machines (see E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
Annex A1) verifying Charpy impact machines (see Annex A2), Determine the Precision of a Test Method
optional test specimen configurations (see Annex A3), desig- E1823 Terminology Relating to Fatigue and Fracture Test-
nation of test specimen orientation (see Terminology E1823), ing
and determining the percent of shear fracture on the surface of E2298 Test Method for Instrumented Impact Testing of
broken impact specimens (see Annex A4). In addition, infor- Metallic Materials
mation is provided on the significance of notched-bar impact 3. Summary of Test Method
testing (see Appendix X1), and methods of measuring the
center of strike (see Appendix X2). 3.1 The essential features of an impact test are: a suitable
1.2 These test methods do not address the problems associ- specimen (specimens of several different types are recognized),
ated with impact testing at temperatures below 196 C (77 K). a set of anvils, and specimen supports on which the test
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as specimen is placed to receive the blow of the moving mass, a
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this moving mass that has sufficient energy to break the specimen
standard. placed in its path, and a device for measuring the energy
1.3.1 ExceptionSection 8 and Annex A4 provide inch- absorbed by the broken specimen.
pound units for information only. 4. Significance and Use
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 4.1 These test methods of impact testing relate specifically
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- to the behavior of metal when subjected to a single application
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- of a force resulting in multi-axial stresses associated with a
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precau- notch, coupled with high rates of loading and in some cases
tionary statements are given in Section 5. with high or low temperatures. For some materials and
temperatures the results of impact tests on notched specimens,
2. Referenced Documents when correlated with service experience, have been found to
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 predict the likelihood of brittle fracture accurately. Further
B925 Practices for Production and Preparation of Powder information on significance appears in Appendix X1.
Metallurgy (PM) Test Specimens 5. Precautions in Operation of Machine
5.1 Safety precautions should be taken to protect personnel
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E28 on from the swinging pendulum, flying broken specimens, and
Mechanical Testing and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E28.07 on
Impact Testing.
hazards associated with specimen warming and cooling media.
Current edition approved Nov. 15, 2012. Published January 2013. Originally
approved in 1933. Last previous edition approved 2012 as E23 12b. DOI: 6. Apparatus
10.1520/E0023-12C. 6.1 General Requirements:
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
6.1.1 The testing machine shall be a pendulum type of rigid
Standards volume information, refer to the standards Document Summary page on construction.
the ASTM website.

Copyright ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

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E23 12c
6.1.2 The testing machine shall be designed and built to may not be equally satisfactory for soft nonferrous metals and
conform with the requirements given in Annex A1. hardened steels; therefore, many types of specimens are
6.2 Inspection and Verification recognized. In general, sharper and deeper notches are required
6.2.1 Inspection procedures to verify impact machines di- to distinguish differences in very ductile materials or when
rectly are provided in A2.2 and A2.3. The items listed in A2.2 using low testing velocities.
must be inspected annually. 7.1.3 The specimens shown in Figs. 1 and 2 are those most
6.2.2 The procedures to verify Charpy V-notch machines widely used and most generally satisfactory. They are particu-
indirectly, using verification specimens, are given in A2.4. larly suitable for ferrous metals, excepting cast iron.3
Charpy impact machines must be verified directly and indi- 7.1.4 The specimens commonly found suitable for powder
rectly annually. metallurgy materials are shown in Figs. 3 and 4. Powder
metallurgy impact test specimens shall be produced following
7. Test Specimens the procedure in Practice B925. The impact test results of these
7.1 Configuration and Orientation: materials are affected by specimen orientation. Therefore,
7.1.1 Specimens shall be taken from the material as speci-
fied by the applicable specification.
7.1.2 The type of specimen chosen depends largely upon the 3
Report of Subcommittee XV on Impact Testing of Committee A-3 on Cast Iron,
characteristics of the material to be tested. A given specimen Proceedings, ASTM, Vol 33 Part 1, 1933.

Perpendicularity of notch axis 62


Adjacent (90) sides shall be at 6 10 min
Cross-section dimensions 6 0.075 mm
Length of specimen (L) +0, 2.5 mm
Centering of notch (L/2) 6 1 mm
Angle of notch 61
Radius of notch 60.025 mm
Ligament Length: 60.025 mm
Type A specimen 60.025 mm
Type B and C specimen 60.075 mm
Finish requirements Ra# 2 m on notched surface and opposite face;
Ra# 4 m on other two surfaces
FIG. 1 Charpy (Simple-Beam) Impact Test Specimens, Types A, B, and C

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NOTE 1Permissible variations shall be as follows:


Perpendicularity of notch axis 62
Cross-section dimensions 60.025 mm
Length of specimen +0, 2.5 mm
Angle of notch 61
Radius of notch 60.025 mm
Ligament Length 60.025 mm
Adjacent (90) sides shall be at 6 10 min
Finish requirements Ra# 2 m on notched surface and opposite face;
Ra# 4 m on other two surfaces
FIG. 2 Izod (Cantilever-Beam) Impact Test Specimen, Type D

Dimensions
Dimensions mm
mm L- Overall Length 75.0 6 1.5
L- Overall Length 55.0 6 1.0 W-Width 10.00 6 0.13
W-Width 10.00 6 0.13 T-Thickness 10.00 6 0.13
T-Thickness 10.00 6 0.13
NOTE 1Adjacent sides shall be at 906 10 min.
NOTE 1Adjacent sides shall be at 906 10 min. FIG. 4 Izod (Cantilever-Beam) Impact Test Specimen for P/M
FIG. 3 Unnotched Charpy (Simple Beam) Impact Test Specimen Structural Materials
for Metal Powder Structural Materials

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unless otherwise specified, the position of the specimen in 8.1.1.2 Check the zero position of the machine by using the
the machine shall be such that the pendulum will strike a following procedure: raise the pendulum to the latched posi-
surface that is parallel to the compacting direction. For powder tion, move the pointer to near the maximum capacity of the
metallurgy materials the impact test results are reported as range being used, release the pendulum, and read the indicated
unnotched absorbed impact energy. value. The pointer should indicate zero on machines reading
7.1.5 Sub-size and supplementary specimen recommenda- directly in energy. On machines reading in degrees, the reading
tions are given in Annex A3. should correspond to zero on the conversion chart furnished by
7.2 Specimen Machining: the machine manufacturer.
7.2.1 When heat-treated materials are being evaluated, the NOTE 2On machines that do not compensate for windage and friction
specimen shall be finish machined, including notching, after losses, the pointer will not indicate zero. In this case, the indicated values,
the final heat treatment, unless it can be demonstrated that the when converted to energy, shall be corrected for frictional losses that are
impact properties of specimens machined before heat treatment assumed to be proportional to the arc of swing.
are identical to those machined after heat treatment. 8.1.1.3 The friction and windage loss shall not exceed 0.4 %
7.2.2 Notches shall be smoothly machined but polishing has of the scale range being tested and should not change by more
proven generally unnecessary. However, since variations in than 10 % of the percent friction and windage loss measure-
notch dimensions will seriously affect the results of the tests, ments previously recorded on the machine. If the percent
adhering to the tolerances given in Fig. 1 is necessary (Appen- friction and windage loss does exceed 0.4 % or is significantly
dix X1.2 illustrates the effects from varying notch dimensions different from previous measurements, check the indicating
on Type A specimens). In keyhole specimens, the round hole mechanism, the latch height, and the bearings for wear and
shall be carefully drilled with a slow feed rate. The slot may be damage. However, if the machine has not been used recently,
cut by any feasible method, but care must be exercised in let the pendulum swing for 50 to 100 cycles, and repeat the
cutting the slot to ensure that the surface of the drilled hole percent friction and windage test before undertaking repairs to
opposite the slot is not damaged. the machine. To ensure that friction and windage losses are
7.2.3 Identification marks shall only be placed in the fol- within allowable tolerances, use one of the following evalua-
lowing locations on specimens: either of the 10-mm square tion procedures:
ends; the side of the specimen that faces up when the specimen (1) For a machine equipped with an analog scale:
is positioned in the anvils (see Note 1); or the side of the Raise the pendulum to the latched position;
Move the pointer to the maximum scale value being used;
specimen opposite the notch. No markings, on any side of the Release the pendulum (without a specimen in the machine);
specimen, shall be within 10 mm of the center line of the notch. Allow the pendulum to cycle five times (a forward and a backward
Permanent markers, laser engraving, scribes, electrostatic pen- swing together count as one cycle);
Prior to the sixth forward swing set the pointer to between 5 and 10
cils, and other reasonable marking methods may be used for % of the maximum scale value being used;
identification purposes. However, some marking methods can After the sixth forward swing record the value indicated by the
result in damage to the specimens if not used correctly. For pointer (convert to energy if necessary);
Divide the energy reading by 10;
example, excessive heat from electrostatic pencils or deforma- Divide by the maximum scale value being used, and
tion to the specimen from stamping can change the mechanical Multiply by 100 to get the percent friction and windage loss.
properties of the specimen. Therefore, care must always be (2) A machine equipped with a digital display:
taken to avoid damage to the specimen. Stamping and other Determine the percent friction and windage loss per manufac-
marking processes that result in deformation of the specimen turers procedure.
should only be used on the ends of the specimens, prior to (3) For machine equipped with both an analog scale and
notching. digital display:
NOTE 1Careful consideration should be given before placing identi- Determine the friction and windage loss using the same
fication marks on the side of the specimen to be placed up when positioned indicating device used to report absorbed energy (10.2.4 and
in the anvils. If the test operator is not careful, the specimen may be placed A2.4).
in the machine with the identification marking resting on the specimen
supports (that is, facing down). Under these circumstances, the absorbed NOTE 3Prior to the 2012 version, the percent friction and windage
energy value obtained may be unreliable. was based on 11 (half) swings and the pointer was not engaged on the first
swing. Now the pointer is engaged on the first swing. The difference is that
8. Procedure the friction, windage, and pointer losses associated with the first swing are
no longer assumed to be zero. On the 1st swing the pointer should go to
8.1 Preparation of the Apparatus: 0.00, so any friction that will be recorded will only show up on the
8.1.1 Perform a routine procedure for checking impact following 10 (half) swings.
machines at the beginning of each day, each shift, or just prior 8.2 Test Temperature Considerations:
to testing on a machine used intermittently. It is recommended 8.2.1 The temperature of testing affects the impact proper-
that the results of these routine checks be kept in a log book for ties of most materials. For materials with a body centered cubic
the machine. After the testing machine has been ascertained to structure, a transition in fracture mode occurs over a tempera-
comply with Annex A1 and Annex A2, carry out the routine ture range that depends on the chemical composition and
check as follows: microstructure of the material. Test temperatures may be
8.1.1.1 Visually examine the striker and anvils for obvious chosen to characterize material behavior at fixed values, or
damage and wear. over a range of temperatures to characterize the transition

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region, lower shelf, or upper shelf behavior, or all of these. The 8.2.4.2 When using a gas medium, position the specimens
choice of test temperature is the responsibility of the user of so that the gas circulates around them and hold the gas at the
this test method and will depend on the specific application. desired temperature within 6 1C (6 2F) for at least 30 min.
For tests performed at room temperature, a temperature of 20 Leave the device used to remove the specimen from the
C 6 5C is recommended. medium in the medium except when handling the specimens.
8.2.2 The temperature of a specimen can change signifi- NOTE 4Temperatures up to +260C may be obtained with certain oils,
cantly during the interval it is removed from the temperature but flash-point temperatures must be carefully observed.
conditioning environment, transferred to the impact machine, NOTE 5For testing at temperatures down to 196C (77 K), standard
and the fracture event is completed (see Note 6). When using testing procedures have been found to be adequate for most metals.
a heating or cooling medium near its boiling point, use data NOTE 6A study has shown that a specimen heated to 100 C in water
can cool 10 C in the 5 s allowed for transfer to the specimen supports
from the references in Note 6 or calibration data with thermo- (1)4. Other studies, using cooling media that are above their boiling points
couples to confirm that the specimen is within the stated at room temperature have also shown large changes in specimen tempera-
temperature tolerances when the striker contacts the specimen. ture during the transfer of specimens to the machine anvils. In addition,
If excessive adiabatic heating is expected, monitor the speci- some materials change temperature dramatically during impact testing at
men temperature near the notch during fracture. cryogenic temperatures due to adiabatic heating (2).
8.2.3 Verify temperature-measuring equipment at least ev- 8.3 Charpy Test Procedure:
ery six months. If liquid-in-glass thermometers are used, an 8.3.1 The Charpy test procedure may be summarized as
initial verification shall be sufficient, however, the device shall follows: the test specimen is thermally conditioned and posi-
be inspected for problems, such as the separation of liquid, at tioned on the specimen supports against the anvils; the pendu-
least twice annually. lum is released without vibration, and the specimen is impacted
8.2.4 Hold the specimen at the desired temperature within by the striker. Information is obtained from the machine and
6 1 C (6 2F) in the temperature conditioning environment. from the broken specimen.
Any method of heating or cooling or transferring the specimen 8.3.2 To position a test specimen in the machine, it is
to the anvils may be used provided the temperature of the recommended that self-centering tongs similar to those shown
specimen immediately prior to fracture is essentially the same in Fig. 5 be used (see A1.10.1). The tongs illustrated in Fig. 5
as the holding temperature (see Note 6). The maximum change are for centering V-notch specimens. If keyhole specimens are
in the temperature of the specimen allowed for the interval used, modification of the tong design may be necessary. If an
between the temperature conditioning treatment and impact is end-centering device is used, caution must be taken to ensure
not specified here, because it is dependent on the material that low-energy high-strength specimens will not rebound off
being tested and the application. The user of nontraditional or this device into the pendulum and cause erroneously high
lesser used temperature conditioning and transfer methods (or recorded values. Many such devices are permanent fixtures of
specimen sizes) shall show that the temperature change for the machines, and if the clearance between the end of a specimen
specimen prior to impact is comparable to or less than the in the test position and the centering device is not approxi-
temperature change for a standard size specimen of the same mately 13 mm, the broken specimens may rebound into the
material that has been thermally conditioned in a commonly pendulum.
used medium (oil, air, nitrogen, acetone, methanol), and 8.3.3 To conduct the test, prepare the machine by raising the
transferred for impact within 5 seconds (see Note 6). Three pendulum to the latched position, set the energy indicator at the
temperature conditioning and transfer methods used in the past maximum scale reading, or initialize the digital display, or
are: liquid bath thermal conditioning and transfer to the both, position the specimen on the anvils, and release the
specimen supports with centering tongs; furnace thermal con- pendulum. If a liquid bath or gas medium is being used for
ditioning and robotic transfer to the specimen supports; place- thermal conditioning, perform the following sequence in less
ment of the specimen on the supports followed by in situ than 5 s (for standard 10 3 10 3 55 mm (0.394 3 0.394 3
heating and cooling. 2.165 in.) specimens, see 8.2.4). Remove the test specimen
8.2.4.1 For liquid bath cooling or heating use a suitable from its cooling (or heating) medium with centering tongs that
container, which has a grid or another type of specimen have been temperature conditioned with the test specimen,
positioning fixture. Cover the specimens, when immersed, with place the specimen in the test position, and release the
at least 25 mm (1 in.) of the liquid, and position so that the pendulum smoothly. If a test specimen has been removed from
notch area is not closer than 25 mm to the sides or bottom of the temperature conditioning bath and it is questionable that the
the container, and no part of the specimen is in contact with the test can be conducted within the 5 s time frame, return the
container. Place the device used to measure the temperature of specimen to the bath for the time required in 8.2 before testing.
the bath in the center of a group of the specimens. Agitate the 8.3.3.1 If a fractured impact specimen does not separate into
bath and hold at the desired temperature within 6 1C (6 2F). two pieces, report it as unbroken (see 9.2.2 for separation
Thermally condition the specimens for at least 5 min before instructions). Unbroken specimens with absorbed energies of
testing, unless a shorter thermal conditioning time can be less than 80 % of the machine capacity may be averaged with
shown to be valid by measurements with thermocouples. Leave values from broken specimens. If the individual values are not
the device (tongs, for example) used to handle the specimens in
the bath for at least 5 min before testing, and return the device 4
The boldface numbers given in parentheses refer to a list of references at the
to the bath between tests. end of the text.

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ID Designation Symbol Dimension, mm ID Designation Symbol Dimension, mm


1 Support (notch side) length 39.93 + 0 0.051 8B 10 mm specimen 1.52 to 1.65
depth 0.69 to 0.81
5 mm specimen 0.36 to 0.48
depth
3 mm specimen
depth
2 Support (notch side) height 7.94 61 9 Solder pad width 17.46 61
3 Insert angle 44.5 6 0.5 10 Solder pad exten- 4.76 61
sion
4 Radius on support 9.53 61 11 Solder pad height 9.53 61
5 Support width 19.96 61 12 rod 7.94 61
6 Notch center 19.96 13 1.58861
7 Notch center 19.96 14 Support (backside) 9.53 61
height
8A 10 mm specimen depth 1.60 to 1.70
5 mm specimen depth 0.74 to 0.80
3 mm specimen depth 0.45 to 0.51

FIG. 5 Centering Tongs for V-Notch Charpy Specimens

listed, report the percent of unbroken specimens with the pendulum), the result shall be reported as exceeding the
average. If the absorbed energy exceeds 80 % of the machine machine capacity. A specimen shall never be struck more than
capacity and the specimen passes completely between the once.
anvils, report the value as approximate (see 10.1) and do not 8.3.3.2 If a specimen jams in the machine, disregard the
average it with other values. If an unbroken specimen does not results and check the machine thoroughly for damage or
pass between the machine anvils, (for example, it stops the misalignment, which would affect its calibration.

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8.3.3.3 To prevent recording an erroneous value, caused by than A2, and A3 is less than A4, then the lateral expansion is the
jarring the indicator when locking the pendulum in its upright sum of A1 + A4.
(ready) position, read the value for each test from the indicator 9.2.1 Before making any lateral expansion measurements, it
prior to locking the pendulum for the next test. is essential that the two specimen halves are visually examined
8.4 Izod Test Procedure: for burrs that may have formed during impact testing; if the
8.4.1 The Izod test procedure may be summarized as burrs will influence the lateral expansion measurements, they
follows: the test specimen is positioned in the specimen- must be removed (by rubbing on emery cloth or any other
holding fixture and the pendulum is released without vibration. suitable method), making sure that the protrusions to be
Information is obtained from the machine and from the broken measured are not rubbed during the removal of the burr. Then,
specimen. The details are described as follows: examine each fracture surface to ascertain that the protrusions
8.4.2 Testing at temperatures other than room temperature is have not been damaged by contacting an anvil, a machine
difficult because the specimen-holding fixture for Izod speci- mounting surface, etc. Lateral expansion shall not be measured
mens is often part of the base of the machine and cannot be on a specimen with this type of damage.
readily cooled (or heated). Consequently, Izod testing is not 9.2.2 Lateral expansion measurements shall be reported as
recommended at other than room temperature. follows. An unbroken specimen can be reported as broken if
8.4.3 Clamp the specimen firmly in the support vise so that the specimen can be separated by pushing the hinged halves
the centerline of the notch is in the plane of the top of the vise together once and then pulling them apart without further
within 0.125 mm. Set the energy indicator at the maximum fatiguing the specimen, and the lateral expansion measured for
scale reading, and release the pendulum smoothly. Sections the unbroken specimen (prior to bending) is equal to or greater
8.3.3.1-8.3.3.3, also apply when testing Izod specimens. than that measured for the separated halves. In the case where
a specimen cannot be separated into two halves, the lateral
9. Information Obtainable from Impact Tests expansion can be measured as long as the shear lips can be
9.1 The absorbed energy shall be taken as the difference accessed without interference from the hinged ligament that
between the energy in the striking member at the instant of has been deformed during testing. The specimen should be
impact with the specimen and the energy remaining after reported as unbroken.
breaking the specimen. This value is determined by the 9.2.3 Lateral expansion may be measured easily by using a
machines scale reading which has been corrected for windage gage like the one shown in Fig. 7 (assembly and details shown
and friction losses. in Fig. 8). Using this type of gage the measurement is made
NOTE 7Alternative means for energy measurement are acceptable with the following procedure: orient the specimen halves so
provided the accuracy of such methods can be demonstrated. Methods that the compression sides are facing each other, take one half
used include optical encoders and strain-gaged strikers. of the fractured specimen and press it against the anvil and dial
9.2 Lateral expansion measurement methods must take into gage plunger and record the reading, make a similar measure-
account the fact that the fracture path seldom bisects the point ment on the other half (same side) of the fractured specimen
of maximum expansion on both sides of a specimen. One half and disregard the lower of the two values, do the same for the
of a broken specimen may include the maximum expansion for other side of the fractured specimen, report the sum of the
both sides, one side only, or neither. Therefore, the expansion maximum expansions for the 2 sides as the lateral expansion
on each side of each specimen half must be measured relative for the specimen.
to the plane defined by the undeformed portion on the side of 9.3 The percentage of shear fracture on the fracture sur-
the specimen, as shown in Fig. 6. For example, if A1 is greater faces of impact specimens may be determined using a variety
of methods. The approach and the acceptable methods are
defined in Annex A4. For each method, the user must distin-
guish between regions formed by stable crack growth mecha-
nisms, and regions formed by unstable crack growth mecha-
nisms. For purposes of this Test Method, the shear area
consists of those portions of the fracture surface that form by
stable crack growth (Fracture Initiation Region, Shear Lips,
and Final Fracture Region), as shown in Fig. 9.
The percent shear area on the fracture surface of a Charpy
impact specimen is typically calculated as the difference
between the total fractured area (Fracture Initiation Region,
Shear Lips, Unstable Fracture region, and Final Fracture
Region) and the area of unstable fracture region, divided by the
total fractured area, times 100. The measurement methods
described in Annex A4 provide estimates for the area of the
unstable fracture region (directly or indirectly), but do not
FIG. 6 Halves of Broken Charpy V-Notch Impact Specimen
consider details of the fracture mode for the unstable region.
Illustrating the Measurement of Lateral Expansion, Dimensions The unstable fracture region could be 100 % cleavage, a
A1, A2, A3, A4 and Original Width, Dimension W mixture of cleavage and ductile-dimple fracture morphologies,

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FIG. 7 Lateral Expansion Gage for Charpy Impact Specimens

a mixture of intergranular and ductile-dimple fracture mor- ture, report the actual temperature.
phologies, or a mixture of other fracture morphologies.
11. Precision and Bias
NOTE 8Carbon steels often exhibit a classic cleavage region that
11.1 An Interlaboratory study used CVN specimens of low
identifies the unstable fracture region with a well-defined area of shiny
fracture that is easy to recognize and measure. Other steels, such as energy and of high energy to find sources of variation in the
quenched and tempered SAE 4340, alloys have a region of unstable CVN absorbed energy. Data from 29 laboratories were in-
fracture that consists of an intimate mixture of cleavage facets and ductile cluded with each laboratory testing one set of five specimens of
dimples (only apparent at high magnifications). Some embrittled steels each energy level. Except being limited to only two energy
can exhibit partially intergranular fracture, as well. In these cases the area levels (by availability of reference specimens), Practice E691
of unstable fracture may not be as easy to identify. was followed for the design and analysis of the data; the details
10. Report are given in ASTM Research Report No. RR:E28-1014.5
11.2 PrecisionThe Precision information given below is
10.1 Absorbed energy values above 80 % of the scale range for the average CVN absorbed energy of five test determina-
are inaccurate and shall be reported as approximate. Ideally an tions at each laboratory for each material.
impact test would be conducted at a constant impact velocity.
Material Low Energy High Energy
In a pendulum-type test, the velocity decreases as the fracture J J
progresses. For specimens that have impact energies approach- Absorbed Energy 15.9 96.2
ing 80 % of the capacity of the pendulum, the velocity of the 95 % Repeatability Limit 2.4 8.3
pendulum decreases (to about 45 % of the initial velocity) 95 % Reproducibility 2.7 9.2
Limits
during fracture to the point that accurate impact energies are no
longer obtained. The terms repeatability and reproducibility limit are used as
10.2 For commercial acceptance testing, report the follow- defined in Practice E177. The respective standard deviations
ing information (for each specimen tested): among test results may be obtained by dividing the above
10.2.1 Specimen type, limits by 2.8.
10.2.2 Specimen size (if not the full-size specimen), 11.3 BiasBias cannot be defined for CVN absorbed en-
10.2.3 Test temperature, ergy. The physical simplicity of the pendulum design is
10.2.4 Absorbed energy, and complicated by complex energy loss mechanisms within the
10.2.5 Any other contractual requirements. machine and the specimen. Therefore, there is no absolute
10.3 For other than commercial acceptance testing the standard to which the measured values can be compared.
following information is often reported in addition to the
information in 10.2: 12. Keywords
10.3.1 Lateral expansion, 12.1 Charpy test; fracture appearance; Izod test; impact test;
10.3.2 Unbroken specimens, notched specimens; pendulum machine
10.3.3 Fracture appearance (% shear, See Note A4.1),
10.3.4 Specimen orientation, and
10.3.5 Specimen location. 5
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
NOTE 9Even when the test temperature is specified as room tempera- be obtained by requesting Research Report RR: E281014.

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ID Num Dimension, mm ID Num Dimension, mm


1 12.7 15 1.59
2 6.4 16 6.4
3 88.9 17 17.5
4 171.5 18 15.9
5 47.6 19 1.7
6 50.8 20 0.5
7 101.6 21 8.3
8 88.9 22 3.2
9 12.7 23 6.1
10 44.5 24 19.1
11 12.7 25 66.7
12 43.2 26 19.1
13 88.9 27 60.3
14 158.8

FIG. 8 Assembly and Details for Lateral Expansion Gage

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NOTE 1Measure average dimensions A and B to the nearest 0.5 mm.


Determine the percent shear fracture using Table A4.1 or Table A4.2.
FIG. 9 Schematic of the Fracture Surface of a Charpy V-Notch
Impact Test Specimen Showing the Various Region of Fracture

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR IMPACT MACHINES

A1.1 The machine frame shall be equipped with a bubble shall be such that the striker is within 2.5 mm from the test
level or a machined surface suitable for establishing levelness specimen. When the indicator has been positioned to read zero
of the axis of pendulum bearings or, alternatively, the levelness energy in a free swing, it shall read within 0.2 % of the scale
of the axis of rotation of the pendulum may be measured range when the striker of the pendulum is held against the test
directly. The machine shall be level to within 3:1000 and specimen. The plane of swing of the pendulum shall be
securely bolted to a concrete floor not less than 150 mm thick perpendicular to the transverse axis of the Charpy specimen
or, when this is not practical, the machine shall be bolted to a anvils or Izod vise within 3:1000.
foundation having a mass not less than 40 times that of the
pendulum. The bolts shall be tightened as specified by the A1.5 Transverse play of the pendulum at the striker shall
machine manufacturer. not exceed 0.75 mm under a transverse force of 4 % of the
effective weight of the pendulum applied at the center of strike.
A1.2 A scale or digital display, graduated in degrees or Radial play of the pendulum bearings shall not exceed 0.075
energy, on which readings can be estimated in increments of mm.
0.25 % of the energy range or less shall be furnished for the
machine. A1.6 The impact velocity (tangential velocity) of the
A1.2.1 The scales and digital displays may be compensated pendulum at the center of strike shall not be less than 3 nor
for windage and pendulum friction. The error in the scale more than 6 m/s.
reading at any point shall not exceed 0.2 % of the range or
0.4 % of the reading, whichever is larger. (See A2.3.8.) A1.7 The height of the center of strike in the latched
A1.3 The total friction and windage losses of the machine position, above its free hanging position, shall be within 0.4 %
during the swing in the striking direction shall not exceed of the range capacity divided by the supporting force, mea-
0.75 % of the scale range capacity, and pendulum energy loss sured as described in A2.3.5.1. If windage and friction are
from friction in the indicating mechanism shall not exceed compensated for by increasing the height of drop, the height of
0.25 % of scale range capacity. See A2.3.8 for friction and drop may be increased by not more than 1 %.
windage loss calculations.
A1.8 The mechanism for releasing the pendulum from its
A1.4 The position of the pendulum, when hanging freely, initial position shall operate freely and permit release of the

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pendulum without initial impulse, retardation, or side vibra- specimen supports) and the shrouds, and this clearance is at least 13 mm,
tion. If the same lever used to release the pendulum is also used the requirements (a) and (d) need not apply.
to engage the brake, means shall be provided for preventing the A1.10 Charpy Apparatus:
brake from being accidentally engaged.
A1.10.1 Means shall be provided (see Fig. A1.2) to locate
A1.9 Specimen clearance is needed to ensure satisfactory and support the test specimen against two anvil blocks in such
results when testing materials of different strengths and com- a position that the center of the notch is located within 0.25 mm
positions. The test specimen shall exit the machine with a of the midpoint between the anvils (see 8.3.2).
minimum of interference. Pendulums used on Charpy ma- A1.10.2 The supports and striker shall be of the forms and
chines are of three basic designs, as shown in Fig. A1.1. dimensions shown in Fig. A1.2. Other dimensions of the
pendulum and supports should be such as to minimize inter-
A1.9.1 When using a C-type pendulum or a compound
ference between the pendulum and broken specimens.
pendulum, the broken specimen will not rebound into the
A1.10.3 The center line of the striker shall advance in the
pendulum and slow it down if the clearance at the end of the
plane that is within 0.40 mm of the midpoint between the
specimen is at least 13 mm or if the specimen is deflected out
supporting edges of the anvils. The striker shall be perpendicu-
of the machine by some arrangement such as that shown in Fig.
lar to the longitudinal axis of the specimen within 5:1000. The
A1.1.
striker shall be parallel within 1:1000 to the face of a perfectly
A1.9.2 When using a U-type pendulum, means shall be
square test specimen held against the anvils.
provided to prevent the broken specimen from rebounding
against the pendulum (see Fig. A1.1). In most U-type pendu- A1.11 Izod Apparatus:
lum machines, steel shrouds should be designed and installed A1.11.1 Means shall be provided (see Fig. A1.3) for clamp-
to the following requirements: (a) thickness of approximately ing the specimen in such a position that the face of the
1.5 mm, (b) minimum hardness of 45 HRC, (c) radius of less specimen is parallel to the striker within 1:1000. The edges of
than 1.5 mm at the underside corners, and (d) positioned so that the clamping surfaces shall be sharp angles of 90 6 1 with
the clearance between them and the pendulum overhang (both radii less than 0.40 mm. The clamping surfaces shall be smooth
top and sides) does not exceed 1.5 mm. with a 2 m (Ra) finish or better, and shall clamp the specimen
NOTE A1.1In machines where the opening within the pendulum firmly at the notch with the clamping force applied in the
permits clearance between the ends of a specimen (resting on the direction of impact. For rectangular specimens, the clamping

FIG. A1.1 Typical Pendulums and Anvils for Charpy Machines, Shown with Modifications to Minimize Jamming

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Note 1Anvils shall be manufactured with a surface finish of 0.1 m (Ra) or better on surfaces A and B above the anvil supports when mounted on the machine.
Note 2 Striker shall be manufactured with a surface finish of 0.1 m (Ra) or better along the front radius and along both sides.
Note 3All dimensional tolerances shall be 60.05 mm unless otherwise specified.
FIG. A1.2 Charpy Striker

NOTE 1All dimensional tolerances shall be 60.05 mm unless other-


wise specified.
NOTE 2The clamping surfaces of A and B shall be flat and parallel
within 0.025 mm .
NOTE 3 Surface finish on striker and vise shall be 2 m (Ra).
NOTE 4Striker width must be greater than that of the specimen being
tested.
FIG. A1.3 Izod (Cantilever-Beam) Impact Test

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surfaces shall be flat and parallel within 0.025 mm. For A1.11.2 The dimensions of the striker and its position
cylindrical specimens, the clamping surfaces shall be con- relative to the specimen clamps shall be as shown in Fig. A1.3.
toured to match the specimen and each surface shall contact a
minimum of /2 rad (90) of the specimen circumference.

A2. VERIFICATION OF PENDULUM IMPACT MACHINES

A2.1 The verification of impact machines has two parts: di- between the used and unused portions of these parts to help
rect verification, which consists of inspecting the machine to identify a worn condition (see Note A2.1).
ensure that the requirements of this annex and Annex A1 are NOTE A2.1To measure the anvil or striker radii, the recommended
met, and indirect verification, which entails the testing of procedure is to make a replica (casting) of the region of interest and
verification specimens. measure cross sections of the replica. This can be done with the anvils and
striker in place on the machine or removed from the machine. Make a dam
A2.1.1 Izod machines are verified by direct verification
with cardboard and tape surrounding the region of interest, then pour a
annually. low-shrinkage casting compound into the dam (silicon rubber casting
A2.1.2 Charpy machines shall be verified directly and compounds work well). Allow the casting to cure, remove the dam, and
indirectly annually. Data is valid only when produced within slice cross sections through the region of interest with a razor. Use these
365 days following the date of the most recent successful cross sections to make radii measurements on optical comparators or other
instruments.
verification test. Charpy machines shall also be verified imme-
diately after replacing parts that may affect the measured A2.2.2 Ensure the bolts that attach the anvils and striker to
energy, after making repairs or adjustments, after they have the machine are tightened to the manufacturers specifications.
been moved, or whenever there is reason to doubt the accuracy A2.2.3 Verify that the shrouds, if applicable, are properly
of the results, without regard to the time interval. These installed (see A1.9.2).
restrictions include cases where parts, which may affect the A2.2.4 The pendulum release mechanism, which releases
measured energy, are removed from the machine and then the pendulum from its initial position, shall comply with A1.8.
reinstalled without modification (with the exception of when A2.2.5 Check the level of the machine in both directions
the striker or anvils are removed to permit use of a different (see A1.1).
striker or set of anvils and then are reinstalled, see A2.1.3). It A2.2.6 Check that the foundation bolts are tightened to the
is not intended that parts not subjected to wear (such as manufacturers specifications.
pendulum and scale linearity) are to be directly verified each NOTE A2.2Expansion bolts or fasteners with driven-in inserts shall
year unless a problem is evident. Only the items cited in A2.2 not be used for foundations. These fasteners will work loose and/or tighten
are required to be inspected annually. Other parts of the up against the bottom of the machine indicating a false high torque value
machine shall be directly verified at least once, when the when the bolts are tightened.
machine is new, or when parts are replaced. A2.2.7 Check the indicator zero and the friction loss of the
A2.1.3 Charpy machines do not require immediate indirect machine as described in 8.1.
verification after removal and replacement of the striker or
anvils, or both, that were on the machine when it was verified A2.3 Direct Verification of Parts to be Verified at Least
provided the following safeguards are implemented: (1) an Once:
organizational procedure for the change is developed and A2.3.1 Charpy anvils and supports or Izod vises shall
followed, (2) high-strength low-energy quality control speci- conform to the dimensions shown in Fig. A1.2 or Fig. A1.3.
mens (see A2.4.1.1 for guidance in breaking energy range for
NOTE A2.3The impact machine will be inaccurate to the extent that
these specimens) are tested prior to removal and immediately
some energy is used in deformation or movement of its component parts
after installation of the previously verified striker or anvils, or or of the machine as a whole; this energy will be registered as used in
both within the 365 day verification period, (3) the results of fracturing the specimen.
the before and after tests of the quality control specimens are
A2.3.2 The striker shall conform to the dimensions shown
within 1.4 J of each other, (4) the results of the comparisons are
in Fig. A1.2 or Fig. A1.3. The mounting surfaces must be clean
kept in a log book, and (5) before reattachment, the striker and
and free of defects that would prevent a good fit. Check that the
anvils are visually inspected for wear and dimensionally
striker complies with A1.10.3 (for Charpy tests) or A1.11.1 (for
verified to assure that they meet the required tolerances of Fig.
Izod tests).
A1.2. The use of certified impact verification specimens is not
A2.3.3 The pendulum alignment shall comply with A1.4
required and internal quality control specimens are permitted.
and A1.5. If the side play in the pendulum or the radial play in
the bearings exceed the specified limits, adjust or replace the
A2.2 Direct Verification of Parts Requiring Annual Inspec-
bearings, or a combination thereof.
tion:
A2.3.4 Determine the Center of StrikeFor Charpy ma-
A2.2.1 Inspect the specimen supports, anvils, and striker chines the center of strike of the pendulum is determined using
and replace any of these parts that show signs of wear. A a half-width specimen (10 3 5 3 55 mm) in the test position.
straight edge or radius gage can be used to discern differences With the striker in contact with the specimen, a line marked

13
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along the top edge of the specimen on the striker will indicate device such as a platform scale or balance, and determine the
the center of strike. For Izod machines, the center of strike may weight to within 0.4 %. Take care to minimize friction at either
be considered to be the contact line when the pendulum is point of support. Make contact with the striker through a round
brought into contact with a specimen in the normal testing rod crossing the center of strike. The supporting force is the
position. scale reading minus the weights of the supporting rod and any
A2.3.5 Determine the Potential EnergyThe following shims that may be used to maintain the pendulum in a
procedure shall be used when the center of strike of the horizontal position.
pendulum is coincident with the radial line from the centerline A2.3.5.2 Determine the height of pendulum drop for com-
of the pendulum bearings (herein called the axis of rotation) to pliance with the requirement of A1.7. On Charpy machines
the center of gravity (see Appendix X2). If the center of strike determine the height from the top edge of a half-width (or
is more than 1.0 mm from this line, suitable corrections in center of a full-width) specimen to the elevated position of the
elevation of the center of strike must be made in A2.3.8.1 and center of strike within 0.1 %. On Izod machines determine the
A2.3.9, so that elevations set or measured correspond to what height from a distance 22.66 mm above the vise to the release
they would be if the center of strike were on this line. The position of the center of strike within 0.1 %. The height may be
potential energy of the system is equal to the height from which determined by direct measurement of the elevation of the
the pendulum falls, as determined in A2.3.5.2, times the center of strike or by calculation from the change in angle of
supporting force, as determined in A2.3.5.1. the pendulum using the following formulas (see Fig. A2.1):
A2.3.5.1 To measure the supporting force, support the
h 5 S ~1 cos b! (A2.1)
pendulum horizontally to within 15:1000 with two supports,
one at the bearings (or center of rotation) and the other at the
h1 5 S ~1 cos a! (A2.2)
center of strike on the striker (see Fig. A2.1). Then arrange the
support at the striker to react upon some suitable weighing where
h = initial elevation of the striker, m,
S = length of the pendulum distance to the center of
strike, m,
= angle of fall,
h 1 = height of rise, m, and
= angle of rise.
A2.3.6 Determine the impact velocity, v, of the machine,
neglecting friction, by means of the following equation:
v 5 =2 gh (A2.3)

where:
v = velocity, m/s,
g = acceleration of gravity, 9.81 m/s2 , and
h = initial elevation of the striker, m.
A2.3.7 The center of percussion shall be at a point within
1 % of the distance from the axis of rotation to the center of
strike in the specimen, to ensure that minimum force is
transmitted to the point of rotation. Determine the location of
the center of percussion as follows:
A2.3.7.1 Using a stop watch or some other suitable time-
measuring device, capable of measuring time to within 0.2 s,
swing the pendulum through a total angle not greater than 15
and record the time for 100 complete cycles (to and fro). The
period of the pendulum then, is the time for 100 cycles divided
by 100.
A2.3.7.2 Determine the center of percussion by means of
the following equation:
gp2
L5 (A2.4)
4p2

where:
L = distance from the axis to the center of percussion, m,
g = local gravitational acceleration (accuracy of one part in
one thousand), m/s2 ,
= 3.1416, and
p = period of a complete swing (to and fro), s.
FIG. A2.1 Dimensions for Calculations

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A2.3.8 Determination of the Friction LossesThe energy A2.4 Indirect Verification:
loss from friction and windage of the pendulum and friction in A2.4.1 Indirect verification requires the testing of speci-
the recording mechanism, if not corrected, will be included in mens with certified energy values to verify the accuracy of
the energy loss attributed to breaking the specimen and can Charpy impact machines.
result in erroneously high measurements of absorbed energy.
A2.4.1.1 Verification specimens with certified energy values
For machines recording in degrees, frictional losses are usually
are produced at low (13 to 20 J), high (88 to 136 J), and
not compensated for by the machine manufacturer, whereas in
super-high (176 to 244 J) energy levels. To meet the verifica-
machines recording directly in energy, they are usually com-
tion requirements, the average value determined for a set of
pensated for by increasing the starting height of the pendulum.
verification specimens at each energy level tested shall corre-
Determine energy losses from friction as follows.
spond to the certified values of the verification specimens
A2.3.8.1 Without a specimen in the machine, and with the
within 1.4 J (1.0 ft lbf) or 5.0 %, whichever is greater.
indicator at the maximum energy reading, release the pendu-
lum from its starting position and record the energy value A2.4.1.2 The reference values for the verification specimens
indicated. This value should indicate zero energy if frictional shall be established on the three reference machines owned,
losses have been corrected by the manufacturer. Now raise the maintained, and operated by NIST in Boulder, CO.
pendulum slowly until it just contacts the indicator at the value A2.4.2 The verified range of a Charpy impact machine is
obtained in the free swing. Secure the pendulum at this height described with reference to the lowest and highest energy
and within 0.1 % determine the vertical distance from the specimens tested on the machine. These values are determined
center of strike to the top of a half-width specimen positioned from tests on sets of verification specimens at two or more
on the specimen rest supports (see A2.3.5). Determine the levels of absorbed energy, except in the case where a Charpy
supporting force as in A2.3.5.1 and multiply by this vertical machine has a maximum capacity that is too low for two
distance. The difference between this value and the initial energy levels to be tested. In this case, one level of absorbed
potential energy is the total energy loss in the pendulum and energy can be used for indirect verification.
indicator combined. Without resetting the pointer, repeatedly A2.4.3 Determine the usable range of the impact testing
release the pendulum from its initial position until the pointer machine prior to testing verification specimens. The usable
shows no further movement. The energy loss determined by the range of an impact machine is dependent upon the resolution of
final position of the pointer is that due to the pendulum alone. the scale or readout device at the low end and the capacity of
The frictional loss in the indicator alone is then the difference the machine at the high end.
between the combined indicator and pendulum losses and those A2.4.3.1 The resolution of the scale or readout device
due to the pendulum alone. establishes the lower limit of the usable range for the machine.
A2.3.9 The indicating mechanism accuracy shall be The lower limit is equal to 25 times the resolution of the scale
checked to ensure that it is recording accurately over the entire or readout device at 15 J.
range (see A1.2.1). Check it at graduation marks corresponding
NOTE A2.5On analog scales, the resolution is the smallest change in
to approximately 0, 10, 20, 30, 50, and 70 % of each range. energy that can be discerned on the scale. This is usually 14 to 15 of the
With the striker marked to indicate the center of strike, lift the difference between 2 adjacent marks on the scale at the 15 J energy level.
pendulum and set it in a position where the indicator reads, for NOTE A2.6Digital readouts usually incorporate devices, such as
example, 13 J. Secure the pendulum at this height and within digital encoders, with a fixed discrete angular resolution. The resolution of
0.1 % determine the vertical distance from the center of strike these types of readout devices is the smallest change in energy that can be
to the top of a half-width specimen positioned on the specimen consistently measured at 15 J. The resolution of these types of devices is
supports (see A2.3.5). Determine the residual energy by usually not a change in the last digit shown on the display because
resolution is a function of the angular position of the pendulum and
multiplying the height of the center of strike by the supporting
changes throughout the swing. For devices which incorporate a verifica-
force, as described in A2.3.5.1. Increase this value by the total tion mode in which a live readout of absorbed energy is available, the
frictional and windage losses for a free swing (see A2.3.8.1) pendulum may be moved slowly in the area of 15 J to observe the smallest
multiplied by the ratio of the angle of swing of the pendulum change in the readout device (the resolution).
from the latch to the energy value being evaluated to the angle
of swing of the pendulum from the latch to the zero energy A2.4.3.2 The upper limit of the usable range of the machine
reading. Subtract the sum of the residual energy and propor- is equal to 80 % of the capacity of the machine.
tional frictional and windage loss from the potential energy at A2.4.4 Only verification specimens that are within the
the latched position (see A2.3.5). The indicator shall agree with usable range of the impact machine shall be tested. To verify
the energy calculated within the limits of A1.2.1. Make similar the machine over its full usable range, test the lowest and
calculations at other points of the scale. The indicating mecha- highest energy levels of verification specimens commercially
nism shall not overshoot or drop back with the pendulum. available that are within the machines usable range. If the ratio
Make test swings from various heights to check visually the between the highest and lowest certified values tested is greater
operation of the pointer over several portions of the scale. than four, testing of a third set of intermediate energy speci-
mens is required (if the specimens are commercially available).
NOTE A2.4Indicators that indicate in degrees shall be checked using
the above procedure. Degree readings from the scale shall be converted to NOTE A2.7Use the upper bound of the energy range given for the
energy readings using the conversion formula or table normally used in low, high, and super-high verification specimens (20, 136, and 244 J
testing. In this way the formula or table can also be checked for windage respectively) to determine the highest energy level verification specimens
and friction corrections. that can be tested. Alternately, use the lower bound of the energy range

15
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given for the verification specimens to determine the minimum energy TABLE A2.1 Verified Ranges for Various Machine Capacities
level for testing. and Verification Specimens TestedA
Machine Usable Verification Specimens Verified
A2.4.4.1 If the low energy verification specimens were not Resolution Tested
Capacity Range Range
tested (only high and super-high were tested), the lower limit of J
J J Low High Super-high J
the verified range shall be one half the energy of the lowest
80 0.10 2.5 to 64 X ... ... 2.5 to 64
energy verification set tested. 160 0.20 5.0 to 128 X X ... 5.0 to 128
325 0.25 6.25 to 260 X X X 6.25 to 260
NOTE A2.8For example, if the certified value of the high energy 400 0.30 7.5 to 320 ... X X 50 to 320
specimens tested was 100 J, the lower limit would be 50 J. 400 0.15 3.75 to 320 X X ... 3.75 to 150
400 0.15 3.75 to 320 X X X 3.75 to 320
A2.4.4.2 If the highest energy verification specimens avail- A
In these examples, the high energy verification specimens are assumed to
able for a given Charpy machine capacity were not tested, the have a certified value of 100 J.
upper value of the verified range shall be 1.5 times the certified
value of the highest energy specimens tested.
NOTE A2.9For example, if the machine being tested has a maximum
capacity of 325 J and only low and high energy verification specimens
were tested, the upper bound of the verified range would be 150 J (100 J
3 1.5 = 150 J), assuming that the high energy samples tested had a
certified value of 100 J. To verify this machine over its full range, low,
high, and super-high verification specimens would have to be tested,
because super-high verification specimens can be tested on a machine with
a 325 J capacity (80 % of 325 J is 260 J, and the certified value of
super-high specimens never exceeds 260 J). See Table A2.1.

A3. ADDITIONAL IMPACT TEST SPECIMEN CONFIGURATIONS

A3.1 Sub-Size SpecimenWhen the amount of material These are shown as Specimens X, Y, and Z in Figs. A3.2 and
available does not permit making the standard impact test A3.3. Specimen Z is sometimes called the Philpot specimen,
specimens shown in Figs. 1 and 2, smaller specimens may be after the name of the original designer. For hard materials, the
used, but the results obtained on different sizes of specimens machining of the flat surface struck by the pendulum is
cannot be compared directly (X1.3). When Charpy specimens sometimes omitted. Types Y and Z require a different vise from
other than the standard are necessary or specified, it is that shown in Fig. A1.3, each half of the vise having a
recommended that they be selected from Fig. A3.1. semi-cylindrical recess that closely fits the clamped portion of
A3.2 Supplementary SpecimensFor economy in prepara- the specimen. As previously stated, the results cannot be
tion of test specimens, special specimens of round or rectan- reliably compared with those obtained using specimens of
gular cross section are sometimes used for cantilever beam test. other sizes or shapes.

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On sub-size specimens the length, notch angle, and notch radius are constant (see Fig. 1); depth (D), notch depth (N), and width (W) vary as indicated below.

NOTE 1The circled specimen is the standard specimen (see Fig. 1).
NOTE 2Permissible variations shall be as follows:
Cross-section dimensions 61 % or 60.075 mm, whichever is smaller
Radius of notch 60.025 mm
Ligament length 60.025 mm
Finish requirements Ra= 2 m on notched surface and opposite face;
Ra= 4 m on other two surfaces
FIG. A3.1 Non-Standard Charpy (Simple-Beam) (Type A) Impact Test Specimens

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NOTE 1Permissible variations for type X specimens shall be as follows:


Perpendicularity of notch axis 6 2
Adjacent ( 90sides) shall be at 6 10 min
Ligament length 60.025 mm

NOTE 2Permissible variations for both specimens shall be as follows:


Cross-section dimensions 60.025 mm
Lengthwise dimensions +0, 2.5 mm
Angle of notch 61
Radius of notch 60.025 mm
Notch diameter of Type Y specimen 60.025 mm
FIG. A3.2 Izod (Cantilever-Beam) Impact Test Specimens, Types X and Y

The flat shall be parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the specimen and shall be parallel to the bottom of the notch within 2:1000.

TYPE Z

NOTE 1Permissible variations shall be as follows:


Perpendicularity between notch length 6 2
and longitudinal centerline
Cross-section dimensions 60.025 mm
Length of specimen +0, 2.5 mm
Angle of notch 61
Radius of notch 60.025 mm
Notch depth 60.025 mm
FIG. A3.3 Izod (Cantilever-Beam) Impact Test Specimen (Philpot), Type Z

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A4. DETERMINATION OF THE PROPORTION OF SHEAR FRACTURE SURFACE

A4.1 These fracture-appearance methods are based on the


concept that 100 % shear (stable) fracture occurs above the
transition-temperature range and brittle unstable fracture oc-
curs below the range, as shown by the instrumented Charpy
data in Fig. A4.1 (see also Test Method E2298). This shear
measurement process was developed for carbon steels that
undergo a distinct ductile to brittle transition that results in a
clearly defined region of cleavage fracture (unstable) on the
surface of the specimen. Fracture surface interpretation is
complicated in materials that exhibit mixed-mode fracture
during unstable crack extension.
In the transition-temperature range, fracture is initiated at the
root of the notch by fibrous tearing. A short distance from the
notch, unstable crack extension occurs (Fbf) as the fracture
mechanism changes to cleavage, mixed mode, or another low
energy fracture mode, which often results in distinct radial
markings in the central portion of the specimen (indicative of
fast, unstable fracture). After several microseconds the unstable
crack extension arrests (Fa). Final fracture occurs at the
remaining ligament and at the sides of the specimen in a stable
manner. As shear-lips are formed at the sides of the specimen,
the plastic hinge at the remaining ligament ruptures. In the
ideal case, a picture frame of fibrous shear (stable) fracture
surrounds a relatively flat area of unstable fracture.
The five methods used below may be used to determine the
percentage of stable fracture on the surface of impact speci-
mens. It is recommended that the user qualitatively character-
ize the fracture mode of the unstable fracture zone, and provide
a description of how the shear measurements were made. The
methods are grouped in order of increasing precision. In the
case where a specimen does not separate into two halves during
the impact test and the fracture occurs without any evidence of
unstable crack extension, the percent shear fracture can be
considered to be 100 % and the specimen should be reported as
unbroken.
NOTE A4.1Round robin data (five U.S. companies, 1990) estimates
of the percent shear for five quenched and tempered 8219 steels and four
microalloyed 1040 steels indicated the following: (1) results using method
A4.1.1 systematically underestimated the percent shear (compared with
method A4.1.4), (2) the error using method A4.1.2 was random and, (3)
the typical variation in independent measurements using method A4.1.4
was on the order of 5 to 10 % for microalloyed 1040 steels.
A4.1.1 Measure the length and width of the unstable frac-
ture region of the fracture surface, as shown in Fig. 9, and
determine the percent shear from Table A4.1 and Table A4.2
depending on the units of measurement.
A4.1.2 Compare the appearance of the fracture of the FIG. A4.1 Instrumented Charpy impact data showing behavior of
specimen with a fracture appearance chart such as that shown steels in the (a) lower shelf, (b) transition, and (c) upper shelf
in Fig. A4.2. regions. The symbols are defined as: (1)Fgy, general yield force,
A4.1.3 Magnify the fracture surface and compare it to a (2)Fm, maximum force, (3) Fbf, force at initiation of unstable crack
precalibrated overlay chart or measure the percent shear propagation, and (4) Fa, force at end of unstable crack
propagation (arrest force).
fracture by means of a planimeter.

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TABLE A4.1 Percent Shear for Measurements Made in Millimetres
NOTE 1100 % shear is to be reported when either A or B is zero.
Dimension Dimension A, mm
B, mm 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5 6.0 6.5 7.0 7.5 8.0 8.5 9.0 9.5 10
1.0 99 98 98 97 96 96 95 94 94 93 92 92 91 91 90 89 89 88 88
1.5 98 97 96 95 94 93 92 92 91 90 89 88 87 86 85 84 83 82 81
2.0 98 96 95 94 92 91 90 89 88 86 85 84 82 81 80 79 77 76 75
2.5 97 95 94 92 91 89 88 86 84 83 81 80 78 77 75 73 72 70 69
3.0 96 94 92 91 89 87 85 83 81 79 77 76 74 72 70 68 66 64 62
3.5 96 93 91 89 87 85 82 80 78 76 74 72 69 67 65 63 61 58 56
4.0 95 92 90 88 85 82 80 77 75 72 70 67 65 62 60 57 55 52 50
4.5 94 92 89 86 83 80 77 75 72 69 66 63 61 58 55 52 49 46 44
5.0 94 91 88 85 81 78 75 72 69 66 62 59 56 53 50 47 44 41 37
5.5 93 90 86 83 79 76 72 69 66 62 59 55 52 48 45 42 38 35 31
6.0 92 89 85 81 77 74 70 66 62 59 55 51 47 44 40 36 33 29 25
6.5 92 88 84 80 76 72 67 63 59 55 51 47 43 39 35 31 27 23 19
7.0 91 87 82 78 74 69 65 61 56 52 47 43 39 34 30 26 21 17 12
7.5 91 86 81 77 72 67 62 58 53 48 44 39 34 30 25 20 16 11 6
8.0 90 85 80 75 70 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

TABLE A4.2 Percent Shear for Measurements Made in Inches


NOTE 1100 % shear is to be reported when either A or B is zero.
Dimension Dimension A, in.
B, in. 0.05 0.10 0.12 0.14 0.16 0.18 0.20 0.22 0.24 0.26 0.28 0.30 0.32 0.34 0.36 0.38 0.40
0.05 98 96 95 94 94 93 92 91 90 90 89 88 87 86 85 85 84
0.10 96 92 90 89 87 85 84 82 81 79 77 76 74 73 71 69 68
0.12 95 90 88 86 85 83 81 79 77 75 73 71 69 67 65 63 61
0.14 94 89 86 84 82 80 77 75 73 71 68 66 64 62 59 57 55
0.16 94 87 85 82 79 77 74 72 69 67 64 61 59 56 53 51 48
0.18 93 85 83 80 77 74 72 68 65 62 59 56 54 51 48 45 42
0.20 92 84 81 77 74 72 68 65 61 58 55 52 48 45 42 39 36
0.22 91 82 79 75 72 68 65 61 57 54 50 47 43 40 36 33 29
0.24 90 81 77 73 69 65 61 57 54 50 46 42 38 34 30 27 23
0.26 90 79 75 71 67 62 58 54 50 46 41 37 33 29 25 20 16
0.28 89 77 73 68 64 59 55 50 46 41 37 32 28 23 18 14 10
0.30 88 76 71 66 61 56 52 47 42 37 32 27 23 18 13 9 3
0.31 88 75 70 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 18 10 5 0

A4.1.4 Photograph the fracture surface at a suitable magni-


fication and measure the percent shear fracture by means of a
planimeter.
A4.1.5 Capture a digital image of the fracture surface and
measure the percent shear fracture using image analysis
software.

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(a) Fracture Appearance Charts and Percent Shear Fracture Comparator

(b) Guide for Estimating Fracture Appearance

FIG. A4.2 Fracture Appearance

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. NOTES ON SIGNIFICANCE OF NOTCHED-BAR IMPACT TESTING

X1.1 Notch Behavior: conditions cannot be predicted from their properties as re-
vealed by the tension test. For the study of these materials the
X1.1.1 The Charpy V-notch (CVN) impact test has been
Charpy and Izod type tests are accordingly very useful. Some
used extensively in mechanical testing of steel products, in
metals that display normal ductility in the tension test may
research, and in procurement specifications for over three
nevertheless break in brittle fashion when tested or when used
decades. Where correlations with fracture mechanics param-
in notched condition. Notched conditions include constraints to
eters are available, it is possible to specify CVN toughness
deformation in directions perpendicular to the major stress, or
values that would ensure elastic-plastic behavior for fracture of multi axial stresses, and stress concentrations. It is in this field
fatigue cracked specimens subjected to minimum operating that the Charpy and Izod tests prove useful for determining the
temperatures and maximum in-service rates of loading. susceptibility of a steel to notch-brittle behavior though they
X1.1.2 The notch behavior of face-centered cubic metals cannot be directly used to appraise the serviceability of a
and alloys, a large group of nonferrous materials and austenitic structure.
steels can be judged from their common tensile properties. If
they are brittle in tension, they will be brittle when notched, X1.2 Notch Effect:
while if they are ductile in tension they will be ductile when X1.2.1 The notch results in a combination of multi-axial
notched, except for unusually sharp or deep notches (much stresses associated with restraints to deformation in directions
more severe than the standard Charpy or Izod specimens). perpendicular to the major stress, and a stress concentration at
Even low temperatures do not alter this characteristic of these the base of the notch. A severely notched condition is generally
materials. In contrast, the behavior of ferritic steels under notch not desirable, and it becomes of real concern in those cases in

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which it initiates a sudden and complete failure of brittle type. distortion, and by this factor tends to increase the energy
Some metals can be deformed in a ductile manner even down absorption when breaking the specimen. However, any in-
to very low temperatures, while others may crack. This crease in size, particularly in width, also tends to increase the
difference in behavior can be best understood by considering degree of constraint and by tending to induce brittle fracture,
the cohesive strength of a material (or the property that holds may decrease the amount of energy absorbed. Where a
it together) and its relation to the yield point. In cases of brittle standard-size specimen is on the verge of brittle fracture, this is
fracture, the cohesive strength is exceeded before significant particularly true, and a double width specimen may actually
plastic deformation occurs and the fracture appears crystalline. require less energy for rupture than one of standard width.
In cases of ductile or shear type of failure, considerable X1.3.2 In studies of such effects where the size of the
deformation precedes the final fracture and the broken surface material precludes the use of the standard specimen, for
appears fibrous instead of crystalline. In intermediate cases, the example when the material is a 6.35-mm plate, subsize
fracture comes after a moderate amount of deformation and is specimens are used. Such specimens (Fig. A3.1) are based on
part crystalline and part fibrous in appearance. the Type A specimen of Fig. 1.
X1.2.2 When a notched bar is loaded, there is a normal X1.3.3 General correlation between the energy values ob-
stress across the base of the notch which tends to initiate tained with specimens of different size or shape is not feasible,
fracture. The property that keeps it from cleaving, or holds it but limited correlations may be established for specification
together, is the cohesive strength. The bar fractures when the purposes on the basis of special studies of particular materials
normal stress exceeds the cohesive strength. When this occurs and particular specimens. On the other hand, in a study of the
without the bar deforming it is the condition for brittle fracture. relative effect of process variations, evaluation by use of some
X1.2.3 In testing, though not in service because of size arbitrarily selected specimen with some chosen notch will in
effects, it happens more commonly that plastic deformation most instances place the methods in their proper order.
precedes fracture. In addition to the normal stress, the applied
force also sets up shear stresses which are about 45 to the X1.4 Temperature Effect:
normal stress. The elastic behavior terminates as soon as the
X1.4.1 The testing conditions also affect the notch behavior.
shear stress exceeds the shear strength of the material and
So pronounced is the effect of temperature on the behavior of
deformation or plastic yielding sets in. This is the condition for
steel when notched that comparisons are frequently made by
ductile failure.
examining specimen fractures and by plotting energy values
X1.2.4 This behavior, whether brittle or ductile, depends on
and fracture appearance versus temperature from tests of
whether the normal stress exceeds the cohesive strength before
notched bars at a series of temperatures. When the test
the shear stress exceeds the shear strength. Several important
temperature has been carried low enough to start cleavage
facts of notch behavior follow from this. If the notch is made
fracture, there may be an extremely sharp drop in absorbed
sharper or more drastic, the normal stress at the root of the
energy or there may be a relatively gradual falling off toward
notch will be increased in relation to the shear stress and the
the lower temperatures. This drop in energy value starts when
bar will be more prone to brittle fracture (see Table X1.1).
a specimen begins to exhibit some crystalline appearance in the
Also, as the speed of deformation increases, the shear strength
fracture. The transition temperature at which this embrittling
increases and the likelihood of brittle fracture increases. On the
effect takes place varies considerably with the size of the part
other hand, by raising the temperature, leaving the notch and
or test specimen and with the notch geometry.
the speed of deformation the same, the shear strength is
lowered and ductile behavior is promoted, leading to shear
X1.5 Testing Machine:
failure.
X1.2.5 Variations in notch dimensions will seriously affect X1.5.1 The testing machine itself must be sufficiently rigid
the results of the tests. Tests on E4340 steel specimens have or tests on high-strength low-energy materials will result in
shown the effect of dimensional variations on Charpy results excessive elastic energy losses either upward through the
(see Table X1.1). pendulum shaft or downward through the base of the machine.
If the anvil supports, the striker, or the machine foundation
X1.3 Size Effect: bolts are not securely fastened, tests on ductile materials in the
X1.3.1 Increasing either the width or the depth of the range of 108 J may actually indicate values in excess of 122 to
specimen tends to increase the volume of metal subject to 136 J.
TABLE X1.1 Effect of Varying Notch Dimensions on Standard Specimens
High-Energy Medium-Energy Low-Energy
Specimens, J Specimens, J Specimens, J
Specimen with standard dimensions 103.0 6 5.2 60.3 6 3.0 16.9 6 1.4
Depth of notch, 2.13 mmA 97.9 56.0 15.5
Depth of notch, 2.04 mmA 101.8 57.2 16.8
Depth of notch, 1.97 mmA 104.1 61.4 17.2
Depth of notch, 1.88 mmA 107.9 62.4 17.4
Radius at base of notch 0.13 mmB 98.0 56.5 14.6
Radius at base of notch 0.38 mmB 108.5 64.3 21.4
A
Standard 2.0 6 0.025 mm (0.079 6 0.001 in.).
B
Standard 0.25 6 0.025 mm (0.010 6 0.001 in.).

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X1.5.2 A problem peculiar to Charpy-type tests occurs X1.6 Velocity of Straining:
when high-strength, low-energy specimens are tested at low
X1.6.1 Velocity of straining is likewise a variable that
temperatures. These specimens may not leave the machine in
affects the notch behavior of steel. The impact test shows
the direction of the pendulum swing but rather in a sidewise
somewhat higher energy absorption values than the static tests
direction. To ensure that the broken halves of the specimens do
above the transition temperature and yet, in some instances, the
not rebound off some component of the machine and contact
reverse is true below the transition temperature.
the pendulum before it completes its swing, modifications may
be necessary in older model machines. These modifications
X1.7 Correlation with Service:
differ with machine design. Nevertheless the basic problem is
the same in that provisions must be made to prevent rebound- X1.7.1 While Charpy or Izod tests may not directly predict
ing of the fractured specimens into any part of the swinging the ductile or brittle behavior of steel as commonly used in
pendulum. Where design permits, the broken specimens may large masses or as components of large structures, these tests
be deflected out of the sides of the machine and yet in other can be used as acceptance tests or tests of identity for different
designs it may be necessary to contain the broken specimens lots of the same steel or in choosing between different steels,
within a certain area until the pendulum passes through the when correlation with reliable service behavior has been
anvils. Some low-energy high-strength steel specimens leave established. It may be necessary to perform the tests at properly
impact machines at speeds in excess of 15.2 m/s although they chosen temperatures other than room temperature. In this, the
were struck by a pendulum traveling at speeds approximately service temperature or the transition temperature of full-scale
5.2 m/s. If the force exerted on the pendulum by the broken specimens does not give the desired transition temperatures for
specimens is sufficient, the pendulum will slow down and Charpy or Izod tests since the size and notch geometry may be
erroneously high energy values will result. This problem so different. Chemical analysis, tension, and hardness tests may
accounts for many of the inconsistencies in Charpy results not indicate the influence of some of the important processing
reported by various investigators within the 14 to 34 J range. factors that affect susceptibility to brittle fracture nor do they
Fig. A1.1 illustrates a modification found to be satisfactory in comprehend the effect of low temperatures in inducing brittle
minimizing jamming. behavior.

X2. SUGGESTED METHODS FOR MEASURING THE POSITION OF THE CENTER OF STRIKE

X2.1 Position of the Center of Strike Relative to the Center


of Gravity:
X2.1.1 Since the center of strike can only be marked on an
assembled machine, only the methods applicable to an as-
sembled machine are described as follows:
X2.1.1.1 The fundamental fact on which all the methods are
based is that when the friction forces are negligible, the center
of gravity is vertically below the axis of rotation of a pendulum
supported by the bearings only (herein referred to as a free
hanging pendulum). Paragraph A1.3 limits the friction forces in
impact machines to a negligible value. The required measure-
ments may be made using specialized instruments such as
transits, clinometers, or cathometers. However, simple instru-
ments have been used as described in the following to make
measurements of sufficient accuracy.
X2.1.1.2 Suspend a plumb bob from the frame. The plumb
line should appear visually to be in the plane of swing of the
striking edge.
X2.1.1.3 Place a massive object on the base close to the
latch side of the pendulum. Adjust the position of this object so
FIG. X2.1 Measurement of Deviation of Center of Strike from
that when back lighted, a minimal gap is visible between it and Vertical Plane through Axis of Rotation when Pendulum is
the pendulum. (See Fig. X2.1.) Hanging Free

23
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X2.1.1.4 With a scale or depth gage pressed lightly against X2.1.1.7 Use an outside caliper or micrometer to measure
the striking edge at the center of strike, measure the horizontal the diameter of the shaft at the same location contacted in
distance between the plumb line and striking edge. (Dimension measuring C. (Dimension D in Fig. X2.1.)
B in Fig. X2.1.) X2.1.1.8 Substitute the measured dimensions in the equa-
X2.1.1.5 Similarly, measure the distance in a horizontal tion
plane through the axis of rotation from the plumb line to the
clamp block or enlarged end of the pendulum stem. (Dimen- X 5 A 1 C 1 D/2 2 B (X2.1)
sion A in Fig. X2.1.)
X2.1.1.6 Use a depth gage to measure the radial distance where:
from the surface contacted in measuring A to a machined X = deviation of the center of strike from a line from the
surface of the shaft which connects the pendulum to the center of rotation through the center of gravity.
bearings in the machine frame. (Dimension C in Fig. X2.1.)

X3. INSTRUCTIONS FOR TESTING NON-STANDARD SPECIMENS

X3.1 When testing non-standard size specimens (see Fig. specimen will coincide with the centerline of the standard
A3.1), the specimen support height should be changed to specimen. Higher specimen supports should be used when
ensure that the center of strike is maintained (see A2.3.4 and testing a sub-size specimen and lower specimen supports
A2.3.7 for instructions). To comply with this change, new should be used when testing an oversized specimen.
specimen supports can be manufactured or shims may be added
to the specimen supports in a secure manner so that they do not X3.3 Determine the nominal height of the non-standard
interfere with the test. specimen. When testing sub-size specimens, subtract this value
from the standard height specimens (10 mm). Divide this value
X3.2 In order to maintain the center of strike requirements, by two. This amount shall be added to the standard specimen
the following procedure should be used when testing a non- support height. For oversize specimens, the result of the
standard specimen. The height of the specimen supports should subtraction is a negative number. Therefore, the thickness of
be changed to ensure that the centerline of the non-standard the supports shall be reduced by the amount calculated.

REFERENCES

(1) Nanstad, R. K., Swain, R. L. and Berggren, R. G., Influence of F. Brown, Jr., and J. G. Kaufman, Eds., ASTM, 1977, pp. 179192.
Thermal Conditioning Media on Charpy Specimen Test Tempera- (6) Tauscher, S., The Correlation of Fracture Toughness with Charpy
ture, Charpy Impact Test: Factors and Variables, ASTM STP 1072, V-notch Impact Test Data, Army Armament Research and Develop-
ASTM, 1990, pp. 195-210. ment Command, Technical Report ARLCB-TR-81012, 1981.
(2) Tobler R. L. Et al., Charpy Impact Tests Near Absolute Zero, (7) Wullaert, R. A., Ireland, D. R., and A. S. Tetelman, Use of the
Journal of Testing and Evaluation, Vol 19, 1 1992. Precracked Charpy Specimen in Fracture Toughness Testing, Frac-
(3) Wullaert, R. A., Ireland, D. R., and Tetelman, A. S., Radiation Effects ture Prevention and Control, pp. 255282.
on the Metallurgical Fracture Parameters and Fracture Toughness of (8) Barsom, J. M. and Rolfe, S. T., Correlations Between KIc and Charpy
Pressure Vessel Steels, Irradiation Effects on Structural Alloys for V-notch Test Results in the Transition-Temperature Range, Impact
Nuclear Reactor Applications, ASTM STP 484, ASTM, 1970, pp. Testing of Metals, ASTM STP 466, ASTM, 1970, pp. 281302.
2041. (9) Mikalac, S., Vassilaros, M. G., and H. C. Rogers, Precracking and
(4) Sovak, J. F., Correlation of Data from Standard and Precracked Strain Rate Effects on HSLA-100 Steel Charpy Specimens, Charpy
Charpy Specimens with Fracture Toughness Data for HY-130, A517-F, Impact Test: Factors and Variables, ASTM STP 1072, J. M. Holt, Ed.,
and HY-80 Steel, Journal of Testing and Evaluation, JTEVA, Vol 10, ASTM, 1990, pp. 134-141 .
No. 3, May 1982, pp. 102114. (10) Sharkey, R. L. and Stone, D. H., A Comparison of Charpy V-notch,
(5) Succop, G. and Brown, W. F., Jr., Estimation of KIc from Slow Bend Dynamic Tear, and Precracked Charpy Impact Transition-
Precracked Charpy Specimen Strength Ratios, Developments in Temperature Curves for AAR Grades of Cast Steel. Journal of
Fracture Mechanics Test Methods Standardization, ASTM STP 632, W. Engineering for Industry 98, Issue 2, May 1976, pp. 446-452.

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